Important Tips for International Students in Turkey

Studying in Turkey as an international student can be a rich and rewarding experience, offering numerous opportunities for personal growth, cultural exploration, and high-quality education. One of the most important aspects for international students in Turkey is understanding the various elements of studying in this attractive country. Turkey provides a wide range of universities, programs, and academic levels for students from all over the world. A thorough review of the requirements and conditions for studying in Turkey helps students make the process of obtaining academic admission smoother.
Studying at Turkey’s top universities offers unique educational, welfare, and research facilities for students. Turkey has a rich and diverse cultural and historical heritage, providing international students with a one-of-a-kind student life experience. In this article, part of the Elm Vira series, we will explore essential tips for international students in Turkey.
Everything You Need to Know as an International Student in Turkey!
Studying in the most pleasant country in the region, as an international student in Turkey, can be a truly valuable experience. Turkey offers high-quality education, cultural diversity, and opportunities for personal growth to students. Below, we present essential tips for studying in Turkey to help forward-thinking students make informed decisions about their academic future.

1. Turkey’s Higher Education System

Turkey’s higher education system consists of public universities, private universities, and vocational and technical education centers. The academic year in Turkey runs from September to June, with a semester system (each semester lasts 3 months). Turkey offers a wide range of academic programs at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels for international students. Researching and identifying the different types of educational institutions in Turkey will help you choose the best option for your academic goals.

1. Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for international students in Turkey vary depending on the type of university, program, and language of instruction. In general, students need a valid high school diploma, proof of language proficiency (Turkish or English), an entrance exam (YOS or SAT), or specific university entrance exams. For precise information about the admission conditions, you should refer to the website of your desired university. Keep in mind that each university may have its procedure for accepting students.

1. Language Skills of International Students in Turkey

Many universities in Turkey offer academic programs in English for international students. However, learning Turkish makes daily life and cultural integration easier. Some universities offer language courses to students. Generally, students need to provide proof of their language skills in English (IELTS, TOEFL) or Turkish (TOMER), depending on the language of their chosen program.

1. Student Visa and Residence Permit

International students in Turkey must obtain a student visa before entering the country. To do so, students need to submit required documents, including identification papers, a university acceptance letter, a valid passport, a photo, proof of language proficiency, financial capability certificates, and more, to the nearest Turkish embassy in their home country. After receiving the student visa and entering Turkey, students must apply for a residence permit at the Immigration Department.

1. Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees for international students in Turkey vary depending on the type of university, program, level of study, and language of instruction. Programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, dentistry, nursing, and others tend to be more expensive than other fields. Graduate studies generally have higher fees compared to undergraduate programs. The language of instruction also influences the tuition fees for international students in Turkey. Studying in English is usually more expensive than studying in Turkish. The Turkish government offers scholarships and financial assistance to students, which international students can benefit from if they meet the necessary criteria.

1. Accommodation

Top universities in Turkey typically offer a variety of housing options for students. These accommodations are usually located either on-campus or off-campus. The cost of accommodation for international students in Turkey depends on the type of housing (student dormitory, apartment, shared house, etc.) and the location of the university. Generally, apartments and rented houses can be more expensive than student dormitories. Additionally, living in large cities like Istanbul or Ankara is more costly than in smaller cities. It’s important to review all available housing options and do thorough research before applying for admission.

1. Health Insurance

International students in Turkey must have health insurance for the duration of their stay in the country. Some universities offer health insurance plans for students. The cost of health insurance in Turkey varies depending on whether it is private or public insurance. Upon arrival in Turkey, students should research the available and affordable student health insurance options.

1. Cultural Exchange

Turkey is culturally rich and diverse, with a predominantly Muslim population. Familiarizing oneself with the local customs, traditions, and societal norms is essential for easing cultural integration for international students in Turkey. Turkey shares many cultural similarities with our beloved Iran, which is why many Iranian students choose this country for their higher education.

1. Student Life and Support Services

Top universities in Turkey offer student clubs, organizations, and a variety of support services to help students integrate and progress academically. International students in Turkey have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, sports, and cultural events, creating a rich and fulfilling experience. Joining these clubs and student networking organizations provides an excellent chance to make new friends and enhance your overall experience as an international student in Turkey.

1. Post-Graduation Opportunities

International students in Turkey can explore various job opportunities in the country after completing their studies. Given the high recognition of degrees from Turkey’s top universities, graduates can pursue careers either within Turkey or abroad. Many Turkish universities provide career services to support students in achieving success in their professional paths.

Study Conditions in Turkey

Studying as an international student in Turkey requires meeting specific requirements and conditions. These conditions depend on various factors, such as the type of university, program, and level of study. Here are the conditions for studying in Turkey:

1. Educational and Language Requirements

International students must have completed their secondary education and hold a valid high school diploma to study in Turkey. Some universities may impose minimum GPA or specific subject grade requirements for admission.

Language proficiency is a key requirement for studying as an international student in Turkey. If you wish to study in a Turkish language program, you must provide a valid Turkish language proficiency certificate (TOMER). For English-language programs, international students need to submit valid results from internationally recognized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

1. Entrance Exams

Some universities (particularly public universities) require standard entrance exams such as the SAT, YOS, ACT, and others for the admission of international students in Turkey. For precise information regarding the entrance exams required by your chosen university, visit the official website of the university.

1. Documents

International students must submit the required documents when applying for admission and registration at top universities in Turkey. The necessary documents for studying as an international student in Turkey typically include:

• High school diploma
• Academic transcripts
• Valid passport
• Language proficiency certificate (Turkish or English)
• Recent photos
• Statement of purpose
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of financial support
• Application fee
• Resume, etc.

1. Student Visa and Residence Permit

International students in Turkey must obtain a student visa to study in the country. This process includes applying for a visa and providing the required documents. After arriving in Turkey, students must apply for a residence permit within one month. The residence permit allows international students to stay legally in Turkey while pursuing their studies.

1. Health Insurance

International students in Turkey must have health insurance coverage during their stay and studies in the country. Universities offer various health insurance plans, and students can benefit from either government-sponsored or private health insurance. Students need to research and choose the most suitable health insurance option before applying for admission.

Top Universities in Turkey

Turkey, known for its pleasant climate, is home to several universities that offer high-quality education and a welcoming environment for international students. These universities are committed to providing top-notch educational, welfare, and research facilities to students, ensuring the success of their graduates both academically and professionally. Below is a list of the top universities in Turkey.

1. Middle East Technical University (METU)

Located in Ankara, Middle East Technical University is one of the top universities in Turkey. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and more. It has consistently ranked high in both national and international rankings, making it one of the best choices for international students in Turkey.

1. Boğaziçi University

Boğaziçi University, situated in Istanbul, is renowned for its strong programs in engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences. Every year, a large number of international students compete for admission to this prestigious institution. Boğaziçi ranks highly among Turkey’s top universities and is internationally recognized for its academic reputation.

1. Koç University

Established in 1993 in the beautiful city of Istanbul, Koç University offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university is known for its excellence in business, engineering, law, medicine, and social sciences both nationally and internationally. Koç University consistently ranks among Turkey’s top universities and is a popular choice for international students.

1. Istanbul Technical University (ITU)

Istanbul Technical University, one of the oldest technical universities in the world, was founded in 1773. It is famous for its engineering and architecture programs. ITU has excelled not only in Turkey but also on the international stage, earning a strong position among the best universities worldwide. With its focus on research and innovation, ITU has become one of the top choices for international students in Turkey.

1. Bilkent University

Located in Ankara, Bilkent University is a private institution with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university offers various programs in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and more at different academic levels. Bilkent is highly regarded among international students in Turkey due to its advanced educational, research, and social facilities.

1. Sabancı University

Founded in 1999, Sabancı University is an innovative private institution in Istanbul. It is considered one of the top universities in Turkey, with a strong focus on research. The university offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and management. Sabancı is well-known for providing opportunities for international students in Turkey.

1. Istanbul University

Founded in 1453 in Istanbul, Istanbul University is one of the oldest universities in Turkey. It is famous for offering a broad range of academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels in fields such as engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Istanbul University is one of the most well-known and popular universities among international students in Turkey.

1. Ankara University

Established in 1946, Ankara University is one of the most prestigious universities in Turkey. It is a renowned public university that emphasizes research and development. Ankara University offers diverse programs in fields like engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Every year, many international students compete for admission to this esteemed institution.

1. Hacettepe University

Located in Ankara, Hacettepe University is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Turkey. It is renowned for its excellent programs in medicine, health sciences, engineering, and social sciences. Hacettepe University is one of the best options for students interested in pursuing medical and paramedical studies in Turkey.

1. Yıldız Technical University

Yıldız Technical University, located in Istanbul, is one of the top universities in Turkey. It is well-known for its engineering, architecture, and natural sciences programs. Yıldız is an excellent choice for international students in Turkey, offering high-quality academic opportunities.

Summary

Studying as an international student in Turkey can be a transformative and enriching experience. By considering the key aspects of studying at Turkey’s top universities, you can better navigate the opportunities and challenges of studying in this dynamic country. These tips will help you create a memorable student experience, focusing not only on academic growth but also on personal and social development.

The top universities in Turkey offer students the chance to study in a scholarly environment with excellent facilities. In this article, we aimed to provide a comprehensive guide on the requirements and process of studying in Turkey. Elm Vira is here to support you in successfully navigating the application process and meeting the requirements to study in Turkey as an international student. For more information and free consultations, feel free to contact us.